Emergency Declared Over Food Assistance Concerns
The Clackamas County Board of Commissioners has declared a state of emergency as thousands of local families face the sudden suspension of federal food benefits. The decision, made on October 30, 2025, comes ahead of the expected pause in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits caused by the ongoing federal government shutdown. The suspension is scheduled to take effect November 1, 2025, leaving many households uncertain about how they will access food.
County leaders say the emergency declaration is a proactive step to support residents who rely heavily on SNAP to meet daily nutritional needs. “We cannot wait for families to go hungry,” one commissioner said during the meeting. “This declaration gives us the flexibility to act fast.”
County Allocates Emergency Funding
To address the immediate impact, commissioners approved up to $100,000 from the county’s general fund contingency for emergency food assistance. The funds will be distributed through local partners and community food programs, with staff determining the most effective ways to reach residents quickly.
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The board also plans to formally request that the State of Oregon and the Governor’s Office explore temporary solutions to replace or supplement the lost federal SNAP dollars. Officials noted that other states have already taken similar steps to safeguard their most vulnerable populations during the shutdown.
What the Declaration Allows
The emergency declaration grants the county the authority to quickly obtain goods and services, enter mutual aid agreements, and redirect public funds to meet urgent community needs. While it does not require immediate spending, the measure ensures that county departments can respond swiftly as the situation evolves.
The declaration will remain in effect until SNAP benefits are restored or until December 31, 2025, whichever occurs first. County leaders emphasized that this flexibility is critical to preventing widespread food insecurity in the coming weeks.
Community Resources and Support
Clackamas County has launched an online resource hub to help residents find nearby food programs and assistance options. The website lists local pantries, emergency meal services, and updates on relief efforts.
Officials are also encouraging donations to the Clackamas Service Center, which is preparing to expand food distribution beginning in early November. Community members can contribute funds, non-perishable food items, or volunteer hours to help meet the growing demand.
A Call for Collective Action
As the federal shutdown drags on, Clackamas County’s leaders are urging both state and community partners to step up. “This is not just a government issue—it’s a community challenge,” one commissioner said.
The declaration underscores a growing concern across Oregon that the loss of federal food benefits could push many families into crisis. For now, Clackamas County’s swift action aims to soften that blow and ensure that, despite Washington’s gridlock, local families do not go hungry.
